Becoming a CDA is a big commitment, but one that creates confident practitioners with command of today’s best practices for teaching young children.

Benefits of The Child Development Associate Credential

Advance your career

Meet job requirements

Reinforce your commitment to early childhood education

Provide parents with peace of mind

Understand Developmentally appropriate practice

Increase your confidence

RENEWAL CRITERIA

All CDA Renewal Candidates must meet the following five criteria:

Documented proof of a current Red Cross or other nationally recognized agency First Aid and Infant/Child (Pediatric) CPR certification – the certification must include (1) treatment for blocked airway and (2) provide rescue breathing for infants and young children. Note: Training is not accepted from independent consultants and/or online training.

Documented proof of one of the following types of training in early childhood education/child development, principles of adult learning, mental health counseling, etc.:- 4.5 Continuing Education Units (CEUs)
– a three-credit-hour course
– or 45 clock hoursThese hours must be in addition to the original 120 clock hours required when the Candidate obtained the CDA Credential. Bilingual CDAs must meet this requirement with coursework incorporating bilingual education.

Documented proof of recent (within one year) prior to your renewal, you must have worked a minimum of 80 hours with young children or families. This must be documented in a letter from your supervisor. Note:The letter from your supervisor should specify, “works with children”.

A completed Letter of Recommendation Form regarding the CDA’s competence with young children prepared by an early childhood education (ECE) Reviewer. The ECE Reviewer must meet the eligibility requirements.

Documented proof current membership with a national or local early childhood professional organization. Your membership must be active/current at the time the Council receives your renewal information. This must be an individual membership, not an agency membership. For a list of National Early Childhood Organizations, please visit the Council for Professional Recognition website.